India achieved a significant milestone in its indigenous defence programme with the successful high-altitude testing of the ‘Akash Prime’ missile system in Ladakh.
Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with public sector firms Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), along with several private sector partners, the test marks a critical step in strengthening India’s air defence network.
Akash Prime the upgraded variant of Akash Weapon System successfully engaged and destroyed two Aerial High Speed Unmanned targets during trials at high altitude in Ladakh Sector. The weapon system is customised to operate in altitude above 4500 meters and has latest upgrades… pic.twitter.com/OL1qYLZF1S
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) July 17, 2025
The Akash is a medium-range, surface-to-air missile system capable of targeting multiple aerial threats simultaneously at ranges of up to 25–30 kilometres.
With the ability to travel at 2.5 to 3.5 Mach, it provides supersonic speed and mid-course correction capabilities.
The system can neutralise targets at altitudes ranging from 100 metres to 20 kilometres and can carry a 60 kg warhead.
Over the years, various iterations such as Akash Mark-1, Akash 1S, and Akash NG have evolved, offering improved performance and targeting.
Notably, Akash NG displayed its operational strength during Operation Sindoor, underlining its strategic importance in countering aerial threats. India has also begun exporting the system, with Armenia being its first international customer.
Akash Prime: A New Chapter
Akash Prime, the latest variant, was tested successfully in Ladakh at an altitude of 4,500 metres. The two-day trial saw the missile intercept and destroy two high-speed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with precision.
Designed specifically for high-altitude, low-pressure environments, Akash Prime comes equipped with an indigenous active Radio Frequency (RF) seeker, allowing accurate target acquisition regardless of weather or terrain.
A statement from the Ministry of Defence noted, “Based on operational feedback, various upgrades will be incorporated into Akash Prime to further enhance its effectiveness. The success of this trial bolsters India’s air defence capabilities in strategically sensitive high-altitude regions.”
Akash Prime represents a substantial advancement in India’s self-reliant defence capability.
Its deployment in border areas strengthens India’s defensive posture and contributes to deterrence against regional threats.
The missile’s successful performance under high-altitude and challenging conditions reflects the maturing of India’s indigenous defence sector.
The Akash series continues to be a cornerstone of India’s air defence strategy.
The successful testing of Akash Prime not only strengthens national security but also enhances India’s credibility as a regional net security provider—from the Himalayas to the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific.
This achievement highlights India’s growing technological capabilities in developing reliable, home-grown military solutions tailored to the country’s unique defence requirements.
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